20 October,2026 06:04 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Badshah and Daler Mehndi. Pics via Instagram
Rapper Badshah has extended his support to veteran singer Daler Mehndi after his on-stage confrontation with Uttarakhand Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal at the Kunjapuri Fair in Tehri Garhwal sparked controversy due to allegations that he was drunk. Calling Mehndi a legend, Badshah expressed disappointment over the way the singer was treated, stressing that artists who have contributed significantly to the music industry deserve respect.
Badshah shared his thoughts on Instagram Stories, where he defended the veteran singer and criticised the public humiliation of an artist. "Daler Mehndi Paaji is a legend. Period," he wrote. The rapper added, "You can express disappointment. But publicly humiliating an artist who has given so much to our music industry is extremely disheartening."
Emphasising the importance of treating senior performers with dignity, Badshah concluded his message by writing, "Legends deserve dignity, especially when they're vulnerable." He signed off with, "Respect. Always." The incident at the Kunjapuri Fair has drawn reactions from several members of the music industry, with artists speaking out in support of Mehndi following his exchange with the Uttarakhand minister.
While the episode prompted questions about the veteran singer's on-stage performance, Badshah's statement focused on how artists should be treated, particularly in public settings. His message highlighted the distinction between expressing dissatisfaction with a performance and humiliating the person delivering it.
Mehndi, known for popularising bhangra-infused pop music with hits such as Tunak Tunak Tun and Bolo Ta Ra Ra, has been a prominent figure in the Indian music industry for decades.
Badshah is among several celebrities who have rallied behind Mehndi. His brother, singer Mika Singh, also defended him, revealing that the veteran singer had recently undergone major surgery and was not in the best of health when he performed at the event. "If he was not able to sing, he must have been unwell because he recently underwent a massive surgery," Mika said.
He also challenged claims that Mehndi had consumed alcohol, stating, "I challenge anyone: if even one person can say 'we have seen Daler drinking alcohol', I will quit singing."
Comedian Kapil Sharma also expressed support for the singer by sharing Mika's video on his Instagram Story. Urging people to show greater compassion, Sharma wrote, "All we need is to be a little kinder towards others. We don't know what someone is going through."
Singer Shaan, Palash Sen and Harshdeep Kaur have also expressed support for Mehndi, adding to the voices calling for compassion and respect towards the veteran performer.
